The Glockenspiel Restaurant Pub 2009

It's been a long time since N and I have had one of our "I don't know, where do YOU want to go?" moments on a date night, but that's what happened tonight. Our initial idea was to head to Star of India on Lancaster NE, but neither of us had the nerve to get out of the car when we couldn't spot a single diner inside. (Yes, we're whimps!) Lancaster is littered with chains - not the best place to be when you want to eat local. Just as well, our car was determined to continue Northeast.
After a (rhododendron blossom filled) relaxing drive, we found ourselves in Mt. Angel at nearly 8 PM. The Bavarian House had a small handwritten apology on their door, so we settled on The Glockenspiel Restaurant Pub. Most of the tables near the windows were filled with diners. Good sign!
We were greeted by the hostess and taken over to one of the open window tables. N and I both ordered a Warsteiner Premium Dunkel to sip while we browsed the menu. I couldn't decide between their Jägerschnitzel and Paprikaschnitzel, so I asked the waitress for her opinion when she came to take our orders. She suggested the Jägerschnitzel ($17.95), as she believes it has more flavor. N was lured by the Spring asparagus menu. He ordered the Asparagus Schnitzel ($19.95). After dinner we splurged and shared a Marionberry Cobbler.
Neither of us discussed our meals until we were back in the car driving home. The entire time I ate, I kept thinking how to best describe my entree. Once we began to share, I discovered N had been going through the same process. While my meal had an appealing appearance and seemed fresh, it was what I would characterize as plain, simple, filling food. It took me back to my childhood. N's experience with his meal was the same. He said even the asparagus didn't have much flavor.
The Marionberry Cobbler was much different than we've ever had. Since we think Marionberries are delicious all by themselves, we're fans of the simple cobbler. This one tasted like both hazelnuts and coconut were added to the topping - reminded me of a macaroon.
So, if a plate of warm, nourishing food with a warm, German themed atmosphere is what you're after - then I could recommend The Glockenspiel. If you're more used to a mouthful of flavor when you eat German food, try elsewhere.

Anonymous, Do you have some good suggestions? Our original intent was to go elsewhere. I was hoping it would be okay, since the last review was last year.Rebekah, We've heard that the Bavarian House is the place to go, but unfortunately they weren't open that night.

THIS PLACE KNOCKED ME OUT! I had one of the best Reuben sandwiches ever. I always request that the kraut be very well drained before the sandwich is assembled because soggy toast is a meal killer for me. Not only did the cook (Paul) respect my wishes, but nestled the kraut between the layers of corned beef! A first in my broad experience with Reubens. The special fries arrived exactly as ordered. She who must be obeyed had their wonderful Wiener schnitzel. It was served with fantastic little dumpling-like creations and broccoli. It also came with a cup of delicious creamed dill pickle soup. Our server was the consummate professional. I cannot imagine what more these folks could have done to make our meal more enjoyable.

German food has an inherent simple flavor, it is not heavily spiced, it is comfort food at it's finest. I experienced the 'Glock' for the first time about a week ago and was pleasantly surprised. We started our meal with the fondue which was served with breads, sausages and apples. The main entree' was delicious and filling. The waitress was attentive and very knowledgeable about the menu choices and what was (and wasn't) good that day. She was also very helpful when it came to picking a beer to compliment our dinner. For the price, the Glockenspiel is right on the money.